Assessing the Potential of Reclaimed Wastewater as a Resource for Sustainable Agricultural Practices

The ASAP-WATER project is designed to investigate the feasibility of using reclaimed wastewater (RW) in agriculture, focusing on organic pollutants. By monitoring water quality, soil-plant system health and crop performance, the main objective is to understand the impact of this alternative water source on agriculture and to contribute to the implementation of safe, environmentally, and sustainable reuse strategies.

Overall, the project aims to provide an understanding of the potential benefits and challenges of using RW in agriculture, with the aim of increasing its use in Portugal (at least 10%). These insights will contribute to the development of guidelines and strategies for the safe, responsible, and sustainable reuse of RW, thus promoting a paradigm shift in water management. The study therefore seeks to provide practical solutions to maintain agricultural productivity, respecting the principles of environmental responsibility, resource efficiency and long-term sustainability, clearly aligned with the goals of the European Green Deal, Circular Economy Action Plan, EU Climate Change Adaptation Strategy, and the Farm to Fork Strategy.